Return to GatorCountry.com



Gator Football 2008 Galleries

Photo Gallery: Gators' Pro Scout Day, 3/18/09 : Several former Florida football players worked out at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium for the final time on Wednesday as NFL scouts looked on, measuring times in the 40-yard dash, L-drill, pro shuttle and three-cone drill. Percy Harvin, Louis Murphy, Kestahn Moore, Tate Casey, Jason Watkins, Phil Trautwein, James Smith, Jamaal Deveaux, Clint McMillan and Lutrell Alford participated in various drills. Former Florida quarterback Doug Johnson did the passing during the receiving drills. Many current Gators were on hand to watch, sporting their new 2008 SEC championship rings that they received before spring break. NFL agent Drew Rosenhaus watched his client, Ingram, from the stands.

Photo Gallery: Gators' Pro Scout Day, 3/18/09

Several former Florida football players worked out at Ben Hill Griffin ...

Updated: Mar 19, 2009 7:48pm PST

Photo Gallery: National Championship celebration, 1/11/09 : More than 42,000 fans turned out to recognize the Florida football team's 2008 BCS National Championship on an overcast afternoon in the Swamp, but the cheers were loudest when quarterback Tim Tebow announced "let's do it again next year. I'm coming back!" Terron Sanders displayed a fresh tattoo commemorating the title. Urban Meyer acknowledged the senior class before turing the microphone over to Charlie Strong, Dan McCarney, Louis Murphy, Aaron Hernandez, Mike Pouncey, Maurkice Pouncey, Joe Haden, Ahmad Black, Carlos Dunlap and Major Wright. Murphy unveiled a new 2008 National Championship sign and Carlos Alvarez unveiled the newest SEC Championship sign. Danny Wuerffel, Chris Leak, Tebow and Orange Bowl Committee Chairman Danny Ponce presented the crystal football from the Coaches' Trophy. Lawrence Wright got the crowd pumped up with his "If you ain't a Gator, you must be Gator bait" chant. The event concluded with Wuerffel and Leak challenging Tebow to join their club of quarterbacks who won a national championship as a senior. Tebow spoke for a couple of minutes, started to walk off of the stage, then turned around and announced he would return next season.

Photo Gallery: National Championship celebration, 1/11/09

More than 42,000 fans turned out to recognize the Florida football tea ...

Updated: Jan 16, 2009 10:14am PST

Super MEGA Photo Gallery: BCS Championship Game, second half, 1/8/09 : MIAMI GARDENS -- Gator Country is THE best source for news and views of the Florida Gators. This photo gallery of more than 400 fully-captioned images is further proof of what Gator Country subscribers have come to expect -- the best. The Gators won the 2008 BCS Championship game on Jan. 8 at Dolphin Stadium on the strength of a pair of second-half touchdowns and a staunch defense that held the powerful Oklahoma offense to seven points in each half. Florida finished 13-1, winning the BCS National Championship for the second time in three years. Percy Harvin scored on two-yard touchdown run, Jonathan Phillips kicked a 27-yard field goal, and Tim Tebow threw a four-yard touchdown pass to David Nelson. The final touchdown was scored to cap a 6:52 drive, the longest scoring drive in a BCS Championship Game. Florida ran for 249 yards and held Oklahoma to 107 yards rushing. The Gators passed for 231 yards while the Sooners threw for 256 yards. Florida held the ball for 34:57, converting on 12 of 17 third-down attempts. Tebow was named the Most Outstanding Player after collecting 340 yards of total offense. Tebow's 231 passing yards and 109 rushing yards is the third-best pass-rush total in a BCS Championship game. Percy Harvin ran for 122 yards.

Super MEGA Photo Gallery: BCS Championship Game, second half, 1/8/09

MIAMI GARDENS -- Gator Country is THE best source for news and views o ...

Updated: Jan 14, 2009 9:23pm PST

Super MEGA Photo Gallery: BCS Championship Game, first half, 1/8/09 : MIAMI GARDENS -- Gator Country is THE best source for news and views of the Florida Gators. This photo gallery of more than 375 fully-captioned images is further proof of what Gator Country subscribers have come to expect -- the best. Florida and Oklahoma were tied 7-7 at halftime of the BCS Championship Game at Dolphin Stadium. The Gators opened the scoring when Tim Tebow connected with Louis Murphy on a touchdown reception. UF denied Oklahoma on the doorstep of the endzone, first on fourth down, later when Major Wright intercepted a pass that was tipped by four players. Florida football alumni were on the sidelines, including Reggie Nelson, Chris Leak, Lawrence Wright, Scot Brantley and more. New England Patriots owner Bob Kraft and coach Bill Belichik were on the sidelines before kickoff. Stay tuned to Gator Country for another gallery from the second half and postgame celebration!

Super MEGA Photo Gallery: BCS Championship Game, first half, 1/8/09

MIAMI GARDENS -- Gator Country is THE best source for news and views o ...

Updated: Jan 11, 2009 3:07pm PST

UF Football Team Returns from Miami, 1/9/09 : The 2008 BCS Champion Florida Gators returned to Gainesville Regional Airport on Friday afternoon, only 14 hours after defeating the Oklahoma Sooners 24-14. An American Airlines plane taxied down the tarmac under a an arch of water being sprayed by firetrucks, creating a rainbow above the team that won a second national championship is three seasons. Classes began at UF on Tuesday, so the players will be hitting the books on Monday morning. The team will be honored at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on Sunday at 1 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

UF Football Team Returns from Miami, 1/9/09

The 2008 BCS Champion Florida Gators returned to Gainesville Regional ...

Updated: Jan 09, 2009 2:29pm PST

Super Photo Gallery: BCS Day 3, 1/4/09 : FORT LAUDERDALE / BOCA RATON -- Members of the Florida offense and new offensive coordinator Steve Addazio participated in a press conference before heading out to practice at Florida Atlantic University for practice on Sunday. Members of the Oklahoma defense fielded questions from the media as well at the Marriott Harbor Beach in Fort Lauderdale. The Gators practiced in full pads, in what would be the final "Circle of Life" of the season. Players joked about whom they wished to oppose in the drill that pits players against each other in a one-on-one wrestling match. Percy Harvin ran without any noticeable limp, changing directions without wearing any special brace. A pair of recruits, Jon Halapio and Brian Linder, waited outside practice.

Super Photo Gallery: BCS Day 3, 1/4/09

FORT LAUDERDALE / BOCA RATON -- Members of the Florida offense and new ...

Updated: Jan 04, 2009 11:23pm PST

Photo Gallery: BCS press conferences, 1/3/09 : Fort Lauderdale -- Representatives from the Florida defense and the Oklahoma offense participated in press conferences on the second day of BCS activities before leaving for practice. Oklahoma offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson, quarterback Sam Bradford, wide receiver Juaquin Iglesias, offensive lineman Phil Loadholt, running back Chris Brown, offensive lineman Jon Cooper and tight end Jermaine Grishman spoke with members of the media. Florida defensive coordinator Charlie Strong, cornerback Joe Haden, linebacker Brandon Spikes, linebacker Ryan Stamper, defensive end Jermaine Cunningham and strong safety Ahmad Black answered questions about preparation for Thursday's BCS Championship game against the Sooners. Joe Haden's haircut drew many second glances.

Photo Gallery: BCS press conferences, 1/3/09

Fort Lauderdale -- Representatives from the Florida defense and the Ok ...

Updated: Jan 03, 2009 8:53am PST

Gators Arrive for BCS Championship, 1/2/09 : Fort Lauderdale -- The Orange Bowl committee greeted the Gators as they disembarked at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport on Friday afternoon, handing out duffel bags and oranges. The entire Florida team made the trip, although offensive lineman James Wilson was on crutches. Brandon Spikes wore the infamous pink suit that he debuted when the Gators arrived in Phoenix two years ago. Duke Lemmens and Justin Trattou followed suit, donning equally colorful attire. Joe Haden had a numeral five and a star shaved in his hair. Urban Meyer and Tim Tebow spoke with the media before the team left by bus for the team hotel.

Gators Arrive for BCS Championship, 1/2/09

Fort Lauderdale -- The Orange Bowl committee greeted the Gators as the ...

Updated: Jan 02, 2009 4:06pm PST

Tim Tebow on the awards circuit : Lake Buena Vista & New York -- So Tim Tebow didn't win the Heisman Trophy again. He did win the Maxwell Award for the second time, and also took home Disney's Spirit Award. Here's a photo gallery from the ESPNU College Football Awards Show on Dec. 11 and the Heisman Trophy press conference on Dec 13.

Tim Tebow on the awards circuit

Lake Buena Vista & New York -- So Tim Tebow didn't win the Heisman Tro ...

Updated: Dec 16, 2008 8:51pm PST

Photo Gallery: SEC Championship celebration, 12/6/08 : Atlanta -- As the clock counted down to zero, members of the Florida football team began to chant "We goin' to the 'ship!" Here's a Gator Country exclusive photo gallery from the postgame scenes as the Gators hoisted the SEC Championship trophy at the Georgia Dome. Junior quarterback Tim Tebow was presented the Most Valuable Player trophy by SEC commissioner Mike Slive. Tebow and head coach Urban Meyer addressed the Gators fans still packed into the stands. Florida will face the Oklahoma Sooners in the BCS Championship game at Dolphins Stadium in Miami on Jan. 8.

Photo Gallery: SEC Championship celebration, 12/6/08

Atlanta -- As the clock counted down to zero, members of the Florida f ...

Updated: Dec 13, 2008 2:13pm PST

Super Photo Gallery: SEC Championship game vs Alabama, second half, 12/6/08 : Atlanta -- A Georgia Dome record crowd of 75,892 fans was treated to a football game for the ages. Florida ended Alabama's 13-game win streak with a 31-20 victory to claim its eighth SEC championship. Alabama scored twice in the third quarter to take a 20-17 lead, but the Gators roared back with a pair of touchdowns in the final ten minutes of the game. Jeff Demps had a one-yard touchdown run to give the Gators the lead. Riley Cooper caught a five-yard touchdown pass from Tim Tebow to put the game out of reach and set off a celebration for fans in orange and blue. Florida gained 358 yards on 64 plays while Alabama gained 323 yards on 58 plays. The only turnover of the game occurred in the closing moments when Joe Haden picked off an errant pass from John Parker Wilson. Florida had possession of the ball for 11:55 of the fourth quarter and converted on seven of 13 third-down attempts.

Super Photo Gallery: SEC Championship game vs Alabama, second half, 12/6/08

Atlanta -- A Georgia Dome record crowd of 75,892 fans was treated to a ...

Updated: Dec 10, 2008 11:30am PST

Super Photo Gallery: SEC Championship game vs Alabama, first half, 12/6/08 : Atlanta -- The Gators took a 17-10 lead into the locker room at halftime of the 2008 SEC championship game at the Georgia Dome on Saturday on a pair of Tim Tebow touchdown passes and a 19-yard field goal by Jonathan Phillips. Carl Moore caught a three-yard touchdown pass in the first quarter to open the scoring. David Nelson caught a five-yard touchdown pass for the last scoring play of the half. Tebow ran 11 times for 52 yards in the half, while passing 8-of-13 for 110 yards. Louis Murphy caught two passes for 19 yards, while Nelson also had two catches for 14 yards. Riley Cooper caught a 51-yard pass and Aaron Hernandez caught a 22-yard pass. Florida gained 179 yards on 32 plays for nine first downs. Alabama gained 166 yards on 28 plays for seven first downs.

Super Photo Gallery: SEC Championship game vs Alabama, first half, 12/6/08

Atlanta -- The Gators took a 17-10 lead into the locker room at halfti ...

Updated: Dec 09, 2008 2:09pm PST

Super Photo Gallery: Florida State, 2nd Half, 11/29/08 : Tallahassee -- Gators fans chanted "3-and-0 at Ron Zook Field" in the waning moments of the Gators' 45-15 win against Florida State as the rain continued to fall. Louis Murphy caught a 23-yard touchdown pass from Tebow to open the second half. Jonathan Phillips kicked a rare field goal, his tenth of the year, to remain perfect on the season. Jeff Demps had a two-yard touchdown run. Brandon Antwine suffered a torn MCL and Wondy Pierre-Louis sustained a sprained ankle. Antwine will miss the remainder of the season. Florida gained 502 yards on 68 plays, including 317 yards rushing and 185 yards passing. Florida State was held to 242 yards on 65 plays, including 102 yards rushing and 140 yards passing. David Nelson recovered an on-side kick attempt in the third quarter, while Janoris Jenkins had an interception.

Super Photo Gallery: Florida State, 2nd Half, 11/29/08

Tallahassee -- Gators fans chanted "3-and-0 at Ron Zook Field" in the ...

Updated: Dec 04, 2008 8:05pm PST

Super Photo Gallery: Florida State, 1st Half, 11/29/08 : Tallahassee -- A torrential downpour couldn't slow down the Florida offense. The Gators scored 28 points on 15 first downs and 312 total yards. FSU was held to nine points on 109 yards. Percy Harvin ran for a nine-yard touchdown, Tim Tebow ran for a four-yard touchdown, and Tebow threw a pair of touchdown passes to Aaron Hernandez. Florida State kicker Graham Gano kicked three field goals. Harvin sprained his right ankle in the second quarter.

Super Photo Gallery: Florida State, 1st Half, 11/29/08

Tallahassee -- A torrential downpour couldn't slow down the Florida of ...

Updated: Dec 02, 2008 10:26pm PST

Photo Gallery: Senior Day, 11/22/08 : University of Florida senior football players and Mr. Two-Bits, George Edmondson, were honored in special pre-game ceremonies before the Gators' 70-19 win against The Citadel on Saturday. The 2008 Gator Senior Class has posted an overall record of 41-9 and are 24-8 (.750) in Southeastern Conference action, highlighted by the BCS National Championship and SEC title in 2006, Eastern Division crowns in '06 and '08 and two January bowl victories. The 2008 senior class posted a 25-2 record in "The Swamp." The following are members of the class: Curtis Carr, Tate Casey, John Curtis, Jamaal Deveaux, Javier Estopinan, Andrew Fritze, Brad Hiers, Cornelius Ingram, Andrew Johnson, Bobby Kane, Kestahn Moore, Louis Murphy, Kyle Newell, Jonathan Phillips, Kyle Pratt, Butch Rowley, James Smith, Jim Tartt, Greg Taussig, Phil Trautwein and Jason Watkins. The 86-year-old Edmondson, who has led his famous cheer at Gator games for 60 years, is retiring from his role and capped his career versus his alma mater. Ironically, The Citadel was also UF's opponent when he made his debut way back on Sept. 24, 1949.

Photo Gallery: Senior Day, 11/22/08

University of Florida senior football players and Mr. Two-Bits, George ...

Updated: Nov 25, 2008 2:40am PST

Super Photo Gallery: South Carolina, second half, 11/15/08 : The Gators doubled a 28-3 halftime lead, hanging 56 points on former Florida head coach Steve Spurrier's South Carolina Gamecocks on Saturday at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Percy Harvin didn't waste any time in the second half, running 80 yards for a touchdown on the first play from scrimmage. Harvin finished with 167 yards rushing on eight carries. Jeff Demps socred on a 38-yard touchdown run later in the third quarter. Aaron Hernandez made a fingertip catch on a five-yard touchdown pass from Tim Tebow on the first play of the fourth quarter. Chris Rainey ran for a three-yard touchdown to give the Gators a 56-3 lead. Rainey had seven carries for 58 yards. The Gators ran for 346 yards while holding South Carolina to 53 yards on the ground. Florida had 173 passing yards, the Gamecocks had 120 yards in the air.

Super Photo Gallery: South Carolina, second half, 11/15/08

The Gators doubled a 28-3 halftime lead, hanging 56 points on former F ...

Updated: Nov 19, 2008 2:10pm PST

Super Photo Gallery: South Carolina, first half, 11/15/08 : Gator Country subscribers have come to expect the best in coverage of the Florida Gators. This gallery of more than 200 images will enable the viewer to experience Saturday's 56-6 win against South Carolina all over again, with detailed captions about each play. Florida welcomed Steve Spurrier to his old stomping grounds, then promptly stomped his Gamecocks to the tune of a 28-3 halftime lead as a steady drizzle rained down on the Swamp. Florida junior linebacker Brandon Spikes returned an interception 12 yards for a touchdown 4:37 to play in the first quarter. Less than a minute later, Percy Harvin scored on a 26-yard touchdown run that was set up by Ahmad Black's interception. With 2:22 to play in the first quarter, Tim Tebow scored on a one-yard touchdown run that was set up by James Smith's recovery of a lateral. And just like that, the Ol' Ball Coach was left shaking his head. Deonte Thompson hauled in a 46-yard pass from Tebow in the second quarter. The Gamecocks wouldn't get further than the 24-yard line all day. With 2:36 remaining in the first half, Ryan Succop hit a 41-yard field goal to put the Gamecocks on the board. Florida had ten first downs, converting on four of seven third-down chances. South Carolina was 0-for-8 on third down, but accounted for five first downs in the half. Each team ran 32 plays from scrimmage, with the Gators racking up 219 yards to the Gamecocks' 81 yards.

Super Photo Gallery: South Carolina, first half, 11/15/08

Gator Country subscribers have come to expect the best in coverage of ...

Updated: Nov 18, 2008 1:58pm PST

Super Photo Gallery: Vanderbilt second half, 11/8/08 : Nashville, Tenn. -- Florida improved to 6-1 in SEC play with a 42-14 win against the Vanderbilt Commodores on Saturday and will make its ninth appearance in the Southeastern Conference Championship Game. Florida has now won or tied for the SEC Eastern Division title ten times. The Gators have won each of the last five road games, the longest streak with the 1999-2000 seasons. UF piled up 42 first downs in the game while Vanderbilt had 14 first downs. Florida ran 38 times for 231 yards, led by Tim Tebow's 88 yards. Vanderbilt ran 39 times for 150 yards, led by Jared Hawkins' 49 yards. The Gators converted on five of eight third-down attempts. Tebow completed 12 of 17 passing attempts for 171 yards and three touchdowns. Carl Moore had four receptions for 31 yards. Louis Murphy had three receptions for 39 yards and a touchdown. Percy Harvin had three receptions for 32 yards. Aaron Hernandez had two receptions for 23 yards. Riley Cooper had an 11-yard touchdown reception from Tebow. David Nelson had a 41-yard touchdown reception from Tebow. Harvin scored on a one-yard touchdown run early in the second half to give the Gators a 42-0 lead. Vanderbilt quarterback Chris Nickson had a pair of touchdown passes in the second half. A crowd of 39,773 packed Vanderbilt Stadium. Nearly half of the fans were clad in orange and blue, taking delight in watching the Gators clinch a trip to Atlanta. After the game, players made an "A" for Atlanta with their hands as quarterback Cam Newton got behind the camera for some candid photos.

Super Photo Gallery: Vanderbilt second half, 11/8/08

Nashville, Tenn. -- Florida improved to 6-1 in SEC play with a 42-14 w ...

Updated: Nov 12, 2008 11:15am PST

Super Photo Gallery: Vanderbilt first half, 11/8/08 : Nashville, Tenn. -- The Gators took the Music City by storm as Florida fans compromised nearly half of Vanderbilt Stadium's crowd of 39,773. Those fans and the Gators began a march to Atlanta to the tune of 35-point halftime lead in the first night meeting at Vanderbilt between the two schools since 1982. Florida junior quarterback Tim Tebow accounted for five first-half touchdowns. He ran for scores of 26 and eight yards while passing for three touchdowns. The 26-yard score was Tebow’s longest touchdown run of his career. Tebow’s two rushing touchdowns tied Darren McFadden (Arkansas) and Shaun Alexander (Alabama) for sixth on the SEC career rushing touchdown chart with 41. Louis Murphy opened the scoring with a 12-yard touchdown reception. Riley Cooper caught an 11-yard touchdown pass. David Nelson hauled in a 41-yard touchdown pass with eight seconds remaining in the half. Senior kicker Jonathan Phillips converted on all five extra points. With 5:46 left in the second quarter, Vanderbilt linebacker Chris Marve tackled Florida junior Percy Harvin at the goal line, forcing a fumble that was recovered by Ryan Hamilton for a touchback. A video replay confirmed the ruling on the field, but photos in this gallery indicate that Harvin appeared to have scored a touchdown if not already down by contact before losing control of the ball. The Gators scored more points on Vanderbilt in the first 18 minutes of the game (28) than the Commodores have allowed in any game this season. Carlos Dunlap blocked two punts in the first half, giving the Gators five blocked punts this season. Ahmad Black intercepted a pass late in the first quarter, his fifth of the season, when Will Hill hit Vanderbilt quarterback Mackenzi Adams as he threw.

Super Photo Gallery: Vanderbilt first half, 11/8/08

Nashville, Tenn. -- The Gators took the Music City by storm as Florida ...

Updated: Nov 09, 2008 11:47pm PST

Super Photo Gallery: Georgia, second half, 11/1/08 : Jacksonville -- The Gators emerged from the locker at halftime with a 14-3 lead that appeared to be in danger when Georgia forced a Florida punt and the Bulldogs marched 68 yards downfield. However, Florida sophomore defensive back Joe Haden intercepted a pass from Matthew Stafford and returned it 88 yards to the 1-yard line to set up a Tim Tebow touchdown that sent many Georgia fans headed for the exits. The Georgia fan section of Jacksonville Municipal Stadium was nearly vacant when the Gators celebrated a 49-10 victory. Tebow threw deep touchdown passes to Louis Murphy and Percy Harvin and ran for three touchdowns in the game, extending his UF record for rushing touchdowns to 39. Redshirt freshman quarterback John Brantley threw a touchdown pass to Deonte Thompson that put the Gators in position to have the largest UF margin of victory in the 78 times the teams have played each other. The 39-point margin of victory marked the second-largest for the Gators in series history. It was the largest margin of defeat for Georgia coach Mark Richt. Redshirt sophomore defensive tackle Terron Sanders recorded his first career fumble recovery during the third quarter. He had an impressive return of 20 yards. Junior linebacker Dustin Doe had his first career interception with 34 seconds remaining in the third quarter. Sophomore safety Ahmad Black had his fourth interception of the season during the fourth quarter. Georgia would get a touchdown when backup quarterback Joe Cox found Aron White in the end zone with 3:09 remaining in the game. The Gators have won 16 of the last 19 meetings between the schools. The all-time series stands at 46-38-2 in Georgia’s favor.

Super Photo Gallery: Georgia, second half, 11/1/08

Jacksonville -- The Gators emerged from the locker at halftime with a ...

Updated: Nov 05, 2008 10:09am PST

Super Photo Gallery: Georgia, first half, 11/1/08 : Jacksonville -- With revenge on their minds, players and coaches from the Florida football team set out to make a statement against Georgia in the annual showdown at Jacksonville Municipal Stadium. By halftime, the Gators sent a clear message that had the Bulldogs shaking their heads as Florida held a 14-3 lead. Brandon Spikes greeted Knowshon Moreno with a bone-jarring hit on the second offensive play of the game, stopping the All-America running back for no gain. Spikes gave Moreno an earful of what was to come during the rest of the game. A relentless Florida defense grabbed two interceptions from Georgia junior quarterback Matthew Stafford, and Bulldogs' kicker Blair Walsh missed a pair of field goals. Florida capitalized on the Georgia miscues, taking advantage of the resulting good field position. Junior Percy Harvin took an option pitch from Tim Tebow and ran 13 yards for a touchdown to open the scoring. Tebow would score on a 2-yard touchdown run, setting a UF career record for rushing touchdowns. His 37th touchdown surpassed Emmitt Smith's previous mark. Senior kicker Jonathan Phillips converted both extra point attempts. At halftime, Georgia had 152 yards on 29 plays. Florida had 130 yards on 25 plays. Each team had nine first downs

Super Photo Gallery: Georgia, first half, 11/1/08

Jacksonville -- With revenge on their minds, players and coaches from ...

Updated: Nov 03, 2008 11:17am PST

Super Photo Gallery: Kentucky 2nd half, 10/25/08 : The Gators did not rest on a 42-3 halftime lead on a Homecoming Saturday. The defense would pitch a second-half shutout, as the Wildcats could only muster two points courtesy of a bad snap on a punt play that resulted in a safety. A crowd of 90,589 was treated to a chance to see several unfamiliar players on the field. Redshirt freshman quarterback John Brantley threw his first career touchdown pass, a 38-yard catch-and-run by David Nelson. Ahmad Black returned an interception for a touchdown on the first play from scrimmage of the second half. Kestahn Moore had a one-yard touchdown run in the third quarter. Freshman Vincent Brown, younger brother of former Gator Vernell Brown, had three carries for nine yards. Brandon Antwine saw significant playing time, while Andy Fritze, Levi Leigh, Rick Burgess, Jaye Howard, Justin Williams, John Jones, Bryan Thomas, Moses Jenkins and Bobby Kane got a taste of the action courtesy of the blowout.

Super Photo Gallery: Kentucky 2nd half, 10/25/08

The Gators did not rest on a 42-3 halftime lead on a Homecoming Saturd ...

Updated: Oct 28, 2008 2:40am PST

Super Photo Gallery: Kentucky 1st half, 10/25/08 : The Gators took a 42-3 lead into halftime, leaving the visiting Kentucky Wildcats gasping for air and thrilling a Homecoming crowd of 90,589. Florida appeared to be in a hurry, not wasting any time, despite the fact that Percy Harvin only touched the ball three times. Three touches, two touchdowns. It was that simple for Harvin, who scored on a 16-yard run and a 33-yard pass from Tim Tebow. Harvin's touchdowns came on Florida's first two drives to consist of more than one play. After taking the opening kickoff, Kentucky was forced to punt after three plays. Freshman William Green blocked the punt, setting up Tebow for a three-yard touchdown run. The Florida defense forced another three-and-out, then repeated a feat of special teams dominance. Jeff Demps blocked Kentucky's second punt attempt, setting up Brandon James to scored on a one-yard touchdown run. The Wildcats could only muster one first down in the first quarter despite holding the ball for most of the period after failing to convert on all five third-down opportunities. The Gators scored 28 points in the first quarter on eight first downs, 72 rushing yards and 54 passing yards. Joe Haden blocked a field goal attempt on Kentucky's first possession of the second quarter, continuing the Gators' first half block party. Florida scored 14 points in the second quarter courtesy of Demps' 61-yard touchdown reception from Tebow and a three-yard touchdown run by Tebow that tied the UF career record for rushing touchdowns with Emmitt Smith. During the half, Florida converted two of three third-down conversions, gaining 266 yards on 31 plays. Kentucky converted two of nine third-down conversions, gaining 132 yards on 36 plays. A pregame ceremony was held to honor Mr. Two Bits, George Edmondson, for his contributions to the University of Florida as a fan and spirit program supporter. The UF cheerleaders and Dazzlers had a commemorative logo on their uniforms and megaphones in recognition of Mr. Two Bits, who will retire his role at the conclusion of this season.

Super Photo Gallery: Kentucky 1st half, 10/25/08

The Gators took a 42-3 lead into halftime, leaving the visiting Kentuc ...

Updated: Oct 26, 2008 9:47pm PST

Super Photo Gallery: LSU, 2nd half, 10/11/08 : Not satisfied with a 20-7 halftime lead, the Gators scored 31 points in the second half against #4-ranked LSU to capture a 51-21 win. Tim Tebow ran for a two-yard touchdown, Jeff Demps ran for a 42-yard touchdown, Brandon Spikes had a 52-yard interception return for a touchdown, Kestahn Moore had a two-yard touchdown run and Jonathan Phillips kicked 25-yard field goal to remain perfect on the season. The Gators ran for 265 yards on 41 attempts while Tim Tebow had 210 yards passing. LSU was held to 80 yards rushing and 241 yards passing.

Super Photo Gallery: LSU, 2nd half, 10/11/08

Not satisfied with a 20-7 halftime lead, the Gators scored 31 points i ...

Updated: Oct 14, 2008 5:08am PST

Super Photo Gallery: LSU, 1st half, 10/11/08 : The Gators shut down the LSU offense early in the first half and forced a pair of inexperienced quarterbacks to lead a one-dimensional offense. Meanwhile, a crowd of 90,684 made Ben Hill Griffin Stadium perhaps louder than any game during Urban Meyer's tenure. The result was a 20-7 halftime lead that the Gators' would only build on in the second half. Percy Harvin opened the scoring on the Gators' third play of the game by catching a tipped pass and running 70 yards for a touchdown. Harvin caught a 7-yard touchdown pass from Tim Tebow for his first career two-TD reception game, both in the first quarter. Florida held the ball for 18:17 of the first half, converting 2 of 6 third-down chances, gaining 256 yards on 37 plays for 13 first downs. LSU had 130 yards on 29 plays for eight first downs. Jonathan Phillips kicked a pair of field goals, 20-yards and 34-yards to give the Gators a 20-0 lead. LSU scored a touchdown with five seconds remaining in the half when Jarrett Lee found Chris Mitchell in the end zone for a 6-yard touchdown pass. Florida linebacker Brandon Spikes made his first career interception by cutting off a pass intended for Richard Dickson. The Gators also recovered a fumbled handoff when A.J. Jones dove on a loose ball.

Super Photo Gallery: LSU, 1st half, 10/11/08

The Gators shut down the LSU offense early in the first half and force ...

Updated: Oct 13, 2008 7:52pm PST

Super Photo Gallery: Gators at Hogs, second half, 10/4/08 : Fayetteville, Ark. -- The Gators rolled to victory against the Razorbacks by scoring 24 points in the second half on Saturday. The adage "speed kills" held true, as Percy Harvin scored on a 21-yard touchdown pass from Tim Tebow, Chris Rainey had a 75-yard touchdown run and Jeff Demps had a 48-yard touchdown run. Florida had possession of the ball for 11:10 of the third quarter, largely due to a pair of fourth-down conversions. The Gators had ten first downs in the fourth quarter after going 3-for-3 on third-down conversions. Florida had 144 yards rushing in the fourth quarter on only nine carries. Redshirt freshman quarterback John Brantley was 2-for-3 passing for 19 yards.

Super Photo Gallery: Gators at Hogs, second half, 10/4/08

Fayetteville, Ark. -- The Gators rolled to victory against the Razorba ...

Updated: Oct 06, 2008 9:59pm PST

Super Photo Gallery: Gators at Hogs, first half, 10/4/08 : Fayetteville, Ark. -- The Gators led the Razorbacks 14-0 at halftime on the strength of a touchdown reception by Brandon James and a 36-yard touchdown run by Jeff Demps after Arkansas muffed a punt. Florida's defense yielded 238 yards on 37 plays, allowing 12 first downs for Arkansas, but stopped the Razorbacks twice on fourth-down attempts. Each team was penalized eight times in the first half. Look for another Super Photo Gallery from the second half! Only Gator Country provides such extensive coverage to allow fans to dissect each game!

Super Photo Gallery: Gators at Hogs, first half, 10/4/08

Fayetteville, Ark. -- The Gators led the Razorbacks 14-0 at halftime o ...

Updated: Oct 06, 2008 6:20pm PST

Photo Gallery: Florida vs. Mississippi, 9/27/08, second Half : The Gators let a 17-7 halftime lead slip away by turning the ball over, allowing big plays and not converting on all five third down opportunities. Tim Tebow was stopped on a fourth-and-one play with 1:24 remaining, shocking most of the 90,106 fans at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. The loss dropped Florida in the polls, but hit harder with the UF players and coaches. Tebow delivered a passionate apology and promise at the end of the post-game press conference.

Photo Gallery: Florida vs. Mississippi, 9/27/08, second Half

The Gators let a 17-7 halftime lead slip away by turning the ball over ...

Updated: Sep 29, 2008 6:31pm PST

Florida vs. Mississippi, 9/27/08, first half : The Gators led 17-7 at halftime after scoring three times in the second quarter. Unfortunately for Florida, the second half would fare much differently. Percy Harvin scored on a 43-yard touchdown pass from Tim Tebow, Jonathan Phillips kicked a 32-yard field goal and Tebow added a one-yard touchdown run. Brandon Spikes recorded two sacks. Look for a gallery from the second half and postgame events to be posted on Sunday evening.

Florida vs. Mississippi, 9/27/08, first half

The Gators led 17-7 at halftime after scoring three times in the secon ...

Updated: Sep 27, 2008 8:24pm PST

Super Photo Gallery: Tennessee, 9/20/08 : Knoxville, Tenn. -- Florida coach Urban Meyer was particularly energized and emotional throughout the Gators' 30-6 win against the Tennessee Volunteers on Saturday. His team followed suit, dominating the opposition for a second-consecutive season and maintaining Meyer's perfect record against the Vols. Aaron Hernandez scored on a 2-yard pass from Tim Tebow, Jonathan Phillips kicked a 39-yard field goal and Brandon James returned a punt 78 yards for a touchdown, giving the Gators a 17-point lead less than ten minutes into the game. Before Tennessee knew what hit them, Phillips added another field goal to give UF a 20-0 lead at halftime. Tebow threw a touchdown pass to Percy Harvin in the third quarter. In the fourth quarter, Tennessee got a 1-yard touchdown from quarterback Jonathan Crompton. The Gators ended the scoring when Phillips kicked a third field goal in the final quarter. In between the third and fourth quarters, as the UF fans sung "We Are the Boys," quarterback Tim Tebow entertained his coaches and teammates by singing along to the Grateful Dead's "Tennessee Jed" as it played over the public address system.

Super Photo Gallery: Tennessee, 9/20/08

Knoxville, Tenn. -- Florida coach Urban Meyer was particularly energiz ...

Updated: Sep 21, 2008 5:22pm PST

Photo Gallery: Gators vs Vols : Knoxville, Tenn. -- Phil Fulmer and the Vols had no solution on offense, defense or special teams, much to the delight to the Florida football team and the Gators fans in attendance. UF won the game 30-6, but after ten minutes of play the Gators were on pace to score 102 points. Outstanding plays by Brandon James, Brandon Spikes, Janoris Jenkins, Tim Tebow and Percy Harvin quited a crowd of 106,138 fans that started to leave at halftime. In fact, the Tennesse marching band may have played Rocky Top less than ten times in the game. Amazing. Look for a Super Photo Gallery of more than 200 photos, available only to Gator Country subscribers, to be posted Sunday evening. If you aren't already a subscriber, find out what you've been missing! Only Gator Country provides such extensive coverage of all Gators events!

Photo Gallery: Gators vs Vols

Knoxville, Tenn. -- Phil Fulmer and the Vols had no solution on offens ...

Updated: Sep 20, 2008 11:11pm PST

Super Photo Gallery: Miami 9/6/08 : More than 200 images, you won't find better coverage anywhere else!The Gators defeated the Miami Hurricanes for the first time since 1985 with a 26-3 win on Saturday night in Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Here's a closer look at the action so you can relive the game! The 2007 Florida softball team was honored after the first quarter after reaching the Women's College World Series final and winning the Southeastern Conference Championship and SEC Tournament last season. Gator alumni Erin Andrews, Fred Weary, David Lee and Drew Miller were on the sidelines, while dozens of recruits were in attendance for the game.

Super Photo Gallery: Miami 9/6/08

More than 200 images, you won't find better coverage anywhere else!The ...

Updated: Sep 07, 2008 10:03pm PST

Super Photo Gallery: Hawai'i part 2 of 2 : The Gators poured on another 28 points in the third quarter on the strength of three big plays. Jeff Demps electrified the crowd by running for a 62-yard touchdown, Louis Murphy took a pass from Tim Tebow for a 48-yard touchdown reception and Ahmad Black returned an interception 80 yards for a touchdown. Cameron Newton ran for a 1-yard touchdown and passed 1-for-2 for 14 yards. Tebow ended his NCAA-record streak of throwing and running for a touchdown in consecutive games, but ran 9 times for 53 yards and was 9-for-14 with 137 yards passing. The Gators held the Warriors to 2-for-11 on third down conventions, while Hawai'i also committed six turnovers.

Super Photo Gallery: Hawai'i part 2 of 2

The Gators poured on another 28 points in the third quarter on the str ...

Updated: Aug 31, 2008 2:46pm PST

Super Photo Gallery: Hawai'i part 1 of 2 : After a scoreless first quarter, the Gators erupted for 28 points in the second quarter. Here's a gallery from the first half of the Gators' 56-10 win against the Hawai'i Warriors in the 2008 season opener at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Brandon James scored twice in the second quarter. He dove into the end zone for a 1-yard touchdown run, and later returned a punt 74 yards for a touchdown. Major Wright returned an interception 32 yards for a touchdown for the first defensive score of the game. Chris Rainey scored on a 33-yard touchdown run with three minutes to go before halftime.

Super Photo Gallery: Hawai'i part 1 of 2

After a scoreless first quarter, the Gators erupted for 28 points in t ...

Updated: Aug 31, 2008 2:18pm PST

Hawaii Mini Photo Gallery :

Hawaii Mini Photo Gallery

Updated: Aug 30, 2008 4:45pm PST

Photo Gallery: Football Fan Day : The University of Florida football team held Alltel Football Fan Day on Sunday in the Stephen C. O’Connell Center. Thousands of fans turned out to get the latest poster signed by members of the 2008 Gators football team and head coach Urban Meyer. Albert the Alligator and Alberta were on hand, as were Mick Hubert, the UF cheerleaders and Dazzlers. Here's a gallery of more than 100 images that capture the fun moments shared by the players and fans.

Photo Gallery: Football Fan Day

The University of Florida football team held Alltel Football Fan Day o ...

Updated: Aug 17, 2008 10:12pm PST

Photo Gallery: In the Trenches : The offensive lineman do the grunt work yet rarely get any glory. Here's photo gallery of more than 70 images as a to salute what they do. Tim Tebow's favorite teammates must be Jim Tartt, Jason Watkins, Mike Pouncey, Maurkice Pouncey and Phil Trautwein. After all, they are the guys who work hard to keep him safe. Offensive lineman don't get their names in the box score. The only stats they can brag about are "pancake" blocks, total yards gained, and preventing sacks. They get called "big uglies," but that doesn't deter the hard work in the weight room, practice field and on gameday. Carl Johnson, Maurice Hurt, Marcus Gilbert, James Wilson, Corey Hobbs, Jim Barrie, Kyle Newell, David Young, Byran Jones, Brad Hiers, Sam Robey, Shawn Schmeider, Gary Beemer and William Steinmann aren't going to make many headlines, but that doesn't diminish their importance to the Gators.

Photo Gallery: In the Trenches

The offensive lineman do the grunt work yet rarely get any glory. Here ...

Updated: Aug 13, 2008 3:21pm PST

password protected gallery

Photo Gallery: Fall practice Day 3, 8/6/08

The shoulder pads were on for the first time and the action is startin ...

Updated: Aug 06, 2008 10:17pm PST

password protected gallery

Photo Gallery: Fall practice Day 2

Dragonflies hovered around the practice fields in the sweltering heat ...

Updated: Aug 05, 2008 9:01pm PST

Photo Gallery: Fall Practice, Day 1, evening practice, 8/4/08 : The 2008 football season has begun. The upperclassman from the University of Florida football team practiced on Monday afternoon to kick off the fall practice season. This exclusive photo gallery captures many of the sights and scenes as the Gators got back to work. Notable jersey number changes: Chris Rainey 3, Joe Haden 5 Terron Sanders and Bryan Thomas were not listed on the current roster and not in attendance at practice. Tim Tebow looked very good completing mid-range passes. Cameron Newton and John Brantley weren't as accurate. Look for another gallery tomorrow night after the full team practices together for the first time.

Photo Gallery: Fall Practice, Day 1, evening practice, 8/4/08

The 2008 football season has begun. The upperclassman from the Univers ...

Updated: Aug 04, 2008 7:42pm PST

FALL PRACTICE - Day 1A, 8/4/08 : Fall football practice began Monday morning at 6am as the freshman made their debut on the Sanders Practice Fields. Here's an exclusive photo gallery of all of the action, stay tuned for a gallery from Monday evening's practice! Here's a gallery of more than 110 images from the opening practice of the 2008 season. Ronnie Wilson was in a defensive uniform, working out at defensive tackle, after having been previously dismissed from the team over a year ago. He worked out alongside Matt Patchan, John Brown, William Green and Omar Hunter. TJ Lawrence worked out at safety despite being recruited as a wide receiver. Adrian Bushell was on hand, but not in uniform and did not participate.

FALL PRACTICE - Day 1A, 8/4/08

Fall football practice began Monday morning at 6am as the freshman mad ...

Updated: Aug 04, 2008 6:39am PST

Gator Charity Challenge - July 25, 2008 : More than $6000 and awareness was raised for six charities in the inaugural Gator Charity Challenge on Friday night at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in front of approximately 1,800 people. The fundraiser featured the 2008 Gators challenging each other in a series of strength competitions. The Florida football team was divided into six groups to represent each charity. Each of the six charities represented at the Gator Charity Challenge were selected by the Gator football program and are affiliated with Shands, a University partner. The charities were the American Cancer Society, American Diabetes Association, American Heart Association, Children’s Miracle Network, March of Dimes and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. The Susan J. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, led by team captain and offensive lineman Jason Watkins, outworked the competition and won the inaugural Gator Charity Challenge with a total score of 27 points. The Gator Charity Challenge was held in association with Uplifting Athletes to help raise the public awareness of rare diseases, which often receive less attention than others. Uplifting Athletes is a charitable organization leading an effort to align college football with rare diseases and raise them as a national priority.

Gator Charity Challenge - July 25, 2008

More than $6000 and awareness was raised for six charities in the inau ...

Updated: Jul 26, 2008 11:54pm PST

Photo Gallery: Football Facilities : Friday marked the official opening of the James W. "Bill" Heavener Football Complex at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. The new facilities feature a trophy room, Gator Room to host up to 200 visitors, coaches' offices, weight room and a remodeled locker room. The facility opened to coincide with Friday Night Lights, a summer football camp designed to attract potential recruits to visit Gainesville. Florida's national championship, SEC championship and Heisman trophies are on display in an atrium that serves as a "front door" to the UF football program.

Photo Gallery: Football Facilities

Friday marked the official opening of the James W. "Bill" Heavener Foo ...

Updated: Jul 18, 2008 9:51am PST

Photo Gallery: ESPN's "TitleTown USA" comes to Gainesville : The scene was reminiscent of a College GameDay visit to campus. ESPN had a television set, Albert the Alligator and the UF cheerleaders were present and a rowdy crowd of orange and blue clad fans covered the north lawn outside of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Kirk Herbstreit, Chris Fowler and Lee Corso were absent. Instead, UF alumna Erin Andrews and Florida junior quarterback Tim Tebow made the case for Gainesville to be named "TitleTown USA." Gainesville will be the featured “TitleTown USA” city during both the 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. editions of SportsCenter on Monday, July 14. “TitleTown USA” is an interactive and multimedia effort to determine which city, town or municipality is America’s top championship location. A panel of judges narrowed down fan-generated nominations to 20 finalists; ultimately, online voting by fans will determine the nation’s top sports town. Gainesville was announced June 10 on SportsCenter as a finalist and is going up against other cities as small as Parkersburg, W.Va., and as large as New York.

Photo Gallery: ESPN's "TitleTown USA" comes to Gainesville

The scene was reminiscent of a College GameDay visit to campus. ESPN h ...

Updated: Jul 10, 2008 6:46pm PST

Photo Gallery: Percy Harvin : More than 80 images from Percy Harvin's first two seasons as a Gator. Percy Harvin is one of the most talented and explosive players in college football. A dual threat at wide receiver and running back, Harvin has nearly 1,200 yards rushing and 1,300 yards receiving in two seasons. Harvin seen action in 24 games with 15 starts in two seasons and has the most career yards rushing by a Florida wide receiver (1,192) and the most rushing yards in a single season by a UF receiver. The only player in Florida history to have 100 yards rushing and receiving in a game, Harvin set career high totals in rushing yards against Michigan with 165 yards on the ground. Harvin had a career-best 16 carries against Florida State. He set personal records against Ole Miss in receptions and yards in a game with 11 catches for 121 yards. Averaging nearly 10 yards per carry and 15 yards per reception in his career, Harvin has 15 touchdowns (nine rushing, six receiving) in two seasons. HONORS: 2007 second team All-SEC (AP and coaches), 2007 Biletnikoff Award finalist, Sporting News first team All-American, first team all-conference recipient by the AP as an all-purpose performer, 2006 AP SEC Freshman of the Year, 2006 Freshman All-American.

Photo Gallery: Percy Harvin

More than 80 images from Percy Harvin's first two seasons as a Gator. ...

Updated: Jul 04, 2008 11:28pm PST

Tim Tebow : From his first practice in April 2006 to spring practices in April 2008, Florida quarterback Tim Tebow has earned a place in the hearts of Florida football fans. He became the first sophomore to win the Heisman Trophy, was a key member of the 2006 BCS Championship and SEC Championship team and has been a leader on and off of the field. He was a first-team All-American in 2007. Here is a photo gallery of more than 130 images from Tebow’s first two years in Gainesville.

Tim Tebow

From his first practice in April 2006 to spring practices in April 200 ...

Updated: Jul 04, 2008 9:14pm PST

Gateway of Champions exterior, 7/2/08 : The James "Bill" Heavener Football complex is located at the corner of L. Gale Lemerand Drive and Stadium Drive. Construction began in February 2007 and is expected to be complete in time for the 2008 season. The new "Gateway of Champions" will provide a front door to the football offices to aid in recruiting. The two-story atrium entryway will include interactive displays, memorabilia from the history of Florida football, and trophy cases displaying the SEC Championship, National Championship and Heisman trophies. The football offices, Gator Room and South End Zone weight room have all been improved. Bricks featuring the names of every All-American from Florida's history lead the way to the entrance, and a Bull Gator statue stands upon a base featuring the names of the boosters who made the construction possible.

Gateway of Champions exterior, 7/2/08

The James "Bill" Heavener Football complex is located at the corner of ...

Updated: Jul 02, 2008 8:34pm PST

Return to GatorCountry.com